This small-batch treat has been my go-to holiday quick fix ever since I first assembled a tray for a last-minute office cookie swap. I discovered the combination of powdered sugar, peanut butter, and a touch of butter when I wanted something that tasted indulgent but required no baking. The result is a bite-sized confection with a tender, fudgy center and a smooth white chocolate shell that snaps pleasantly when you bite into it. Every family gathering since has seen at least one tray disappear within the first hour. I love these because they carry the nostalgia of classic peanut butter candies while adding a festive white chocolate coat and colorful sprinkles. The filling is sweet but not cloying, with peanut butter providing depth and a hint of salt. The white coating brightens the flavor and gives a beautiful canvas for sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or toasted nuts. They’re especially handy during the holidays when you want to make something that looks special without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Powdered sugar — 1 cup: Choose a fine, sifted powdered sugar for a silky filling. I favor Domino or store-brand fine confectioners; sifting removes any lumps that can make rolling difficult.
• Peanut butter — 1/2 cup: Use creamy for smooth centers or chunky for a more rustic texture. Natural peanut butter works but may alter firmness; if using natural, stir well and chill longer.
• Unsalted butter — 3 tablespoons, room temperature: Adds richness and helps bind the filling. If all you have is salted butter, omit any extra added salt in the coating.
• White melting chocolate — 16 ounces (1 lb): Use candy melts or high-quality white chocolate chips (Ghirardelli, Guittard) melted gently. Candy melts set easier but white chocolate gives a superior flavor.
• Christmas sprinkles and other toppings: Choose nonpareils, jimmies, crushed candy cane, chopped pistachios, or cocoa nibs. Ensure sprinkles are gluten-free if needed.

Instructions

Combine the filling: In a medium mixing bowl, add 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 cup peanut butter, and 3 tablespoons room-temperature butter. Use a large rubber spatula to fold and press the mixture until it forms a dense, pliable dough. The texture should be firm enough to hold a shape but soft enough to roll — if too dry, add 1/2 teaspoon peanut butter; if too sticky, add 1 tablespoon powdered sugar. Shape the centers: Use a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon) or a portion scoop to form uniform balls. Roll quickly between your palms to smooth the surface. Aim for 1-inch diameter balls for neat bites. Place each ball on a parchment-lined tray, leaving a little space between each one. Chill until firm: Refrigerate the tray for 15–30 minutes. Chilling firms the centers so they hold shape when dipped. If you’re short on time, freeze for 8–10 minutes; if preparing ahead, keep them refrigerated up to 48 hours before coating. Melt the coating: Place 16 ounces white melting chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals at medium power, stirring thoroughly between intervals until smooth. Avoid overheating — white chocolate burns easily and will seize. Alternatively, melt gently in a double boiler over simmering water. Dip and decorate: Using a fork or dipping tool, lower chilled centers into the melted chocolate, tapping off excess. Return to parchment paper and immediately add sprinkles or toppings before the coating sets. If the coating thickens while you work, warm briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds and stir. Set the coating: Let the coated pieces sit at room temperature until the coating hardens, about 20–30 minutes. For faster setting, place the tray in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes. Store completed confections in an airtight container in the refrigerator or at cool room temperature if your kitchen is below 70°F.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container layered with parchment to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated if your home temperature is warm; at cool room temperature they can sit out for a day. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. When removing from the fridge, let sit 10 minutes to take the chill off for the best flavor and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re nut-free, substitute sunflower seed butter at a 1:1 ratio — the centers will be slightly softer and may darken over time, but they remain delicious. For a firmer center, increase powdered sugar by 1–2 tablespoons. Switch the white coating to dark or milk chocolate for a richer contrast; if using dark chocolate, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the filling to balance sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve on a decorative tray with parchment doilies for a holiday spread. Pair with coffee or a nutty dessert wine. For kids’ parties, use colorful sprinkles and mini candy canes; for adult gatherings, garnish with a light dusting of flaky sea salt or a thin drizzle of dark chocolate for visual contrast and flavor balance.

Cultural Background

While not tied to a specific regional tradition, peanut butter confections have long been a staple in American holiday baking, often showing up in cookie exchanges and gift boxes. These truffles are an evolution of classic no-bake candies like buckeye candies and peanut butter balls, adapted with modern melting wafers and festive decoration for seasonal charm.

Seasonal Adaptations

For winter holidays, top with crushed peppermint or red-and-green sprinkles. In summer, swap the white coating for milk chocolate and finish with toasted coconut. For Thanksgiving, sprinkle with finely chopped pecans and a dash of cinnamon. Small ingredient swaps can shift the flavor profile dramatically while keeping the same simple method.

Meal Prep Tips

Prepare the centers in advance and freeze them on a tray; once solid, bag them for later coating. This lets you produce large batches over time without rushing. When ready to assemble, warm the centers for a few minutes at room temperature so the coating adheres smoothly. Package in small cellophane bags for gifting, adding a festive label with storage instructions.

These truffles are a quick, forgiving option that bring a lot of holiday cheer with minimal fuss. Experiment with finishes and enjoy sharing them — homemade sweets become memorable tokens at any celebration.